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Sum in medio tempestatum, RV632

Introduction

This motet, which belongs to the category ‘per ogni stagioni’ (for all seasons) and can thus be inserted appropriately into almost any Mass or Vespers service, is, together with In turbato mare irato, RV637, the latest in date of his surviving motets. Both are preserved in Dresden and originate from the collection of sacred music built up by the Bohemian composer and double-bass player Jan Dismas Zelenka (1679-1745). They were entered in his catalogue in 1731, although Zelenka may have acquired them a little earlier. The probability is that these motets, like the Laudate pueri in G major, RV601, were written for one or more members of a group of seven singers attached to the Saxon court who trained in Venice in the 1720s and joined the Hofkapelle in 1730.

The text for the motet was set also by Leonardo Leo (1690-c1730). In an opening aria the singer likens the human condition to that of a ship amid stormy seas (Vivaldi’s flashes of lightning in the first violin part are clearly audible). In the recitative that follows, he (or she) resolves to renounce the temptations of the world and follow Jesus. This leaves a second, slower aria to express the singer’s contentment and feelings of security in a new-found faith. A vivacious ‘Alleluia’ (without which no motet is complete) provides a final burst of exuberance.

RV632, besides requiring a singer of quite extraordinary agility, finds Vivaldi at his most galant. There is a wealth of detail in the principal melodic line, and a strict polarity between the ornate treble and functional bass is very evident. The distraction of counterpoint is largely eschewed. This is not, however, superficial or facile music, although it certainly projects values different from those cultivated at the outset of his career.

Recordings

‘Another well-executed Vivaldi disc, then, from King, who with this series is showing that his good ear for the right singer is matched by innate symp ...'A magnificent disc' (BBC Music Magazine)» More

'For King's sterling service to the Vivaldian cause, one of his most important recording and satisfying projects to date, I am thankful' (Gramophone)'If you're waiting for the perfect collection of Vivaldi's sacred music, this is it. It was a happy day when this beautiful boxed set arrived in my m ...» More

I am in the midst of stormy weather, like a ship which is tossed about, rocked amidst terrible storms. Horrors from this side, terrors from that, the winds rant, I know of no harbour and I cannot see the friendly stars.

What shall I do, unhappy soul that I am? Where is my good fortune, my happiness? Where are the delights of the world? Deceptive honours, go, fly far away; I shun you, I care not for you, I shall love Jesus only, and I shall weep constantly at the woes of my heart.